Bipolar or ultrasonic surgical device

ABSTRACT

An electro-mechanical surgical device, system and/or method may include a housing, at least two opposing jaw, and at least one electrical contact associated with at least one of the jaws. The electrical contact may include at least one of a bipolar electrical contact and an ultrasonic electrical contact. The electrical contact may be a row of electrodes located on one or all of the jaws. A sensor may also be associated with any tissue located between the jaws to sense and report the temperature of that tissue. A piercable ampulla containing fluid may also be placed on at least one of the jaws so that the fluid is releasable when the jaws are in closed position and the electrode(s) pass through the tissue into the piercable ampulla.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application claiming the benefit ofand priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/611,273, filed onSep. 12, 2012, which is a divisional application claiming the benefit ofand priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/128,768, filed onApr. 22, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,292,888, issued on Oct. 23, 2012,which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/285,113, filed on Apr. 20, 2001, and U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/289,370, filed on May 8,2001, each of which is expressly incorporated herein in its entirety byreference thereto.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/128,768 also expressly incorporatesin its entirety by reference thereto International Published PatentApplication No. WO 00/72765, filed on Jun. 2, 2000. U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/128,768 also expressly incorporates in itsentirety by reference thereto U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/723,715, filed on Nov. 28, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,793,652, issuedon Sep. 21, 2004, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/324,451, filed on Jun. 2, 1999, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,315,184, issued on Nov. 13, 2001, which is a continuation-in-partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/324,452, filed on Jun. 2, 1999,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,443,973, issued on Sep. 3, 2002, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/351,534,filed on Jul. 12, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,264,087, issued on Jul. 24,2001, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 09/510,923, filed on Feb. 22, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,517,565,issued on Feb. 11, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/510,927, filed on Feb. 22, 2000, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,716,233, issued on Apr. 6, 2004, which is a continuation-in-partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/324,452, filed on Jun. 2, 1999,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,443,973, issued on Sep. 3, 2002, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/510,932,filed on Feb. 22, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,491,201, issued on Dec. 10,2002, each of which is expressly incorporated in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/128,768 in its entirety by reference thereto.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a bipolar and/or ultrasonic surgicaldevice.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Various bipolar, ultrasonic, and/or electro-mechanical surgical devicesexist which are used to cauterize and coagulate tissue in a surgicalprocedure. Some devices use bipolar electrical energy in order to cutand/or coagulate tissue. Generally, bipolar surgical instruments clampthe tissue prior to the application of the electro surgical energy. Somedevices provide opposing jaws to perform the clamping or graspingprocedure where an electrode(s) is disposed on the inner surface of thejaws. These bipolar surgical instruments coagulate, cut and separatetissue by charging the electrode(s) to apply heat to the tissue betweenthe jaws.

During the use of bipolar surgical instruments, the heat generated bythe electrodes causes the desired coagulation and cutting of tissue.Several of the bipolar surgical instruments may encounter problems withthe application of the heat of the tissue. Adjacent tissue may bedamaged due to application of excessive heat. Conversely, where lessenergy is applied to the electrodes in order to prevent over heating,the coagulation of the tissue may require more time than desired.

Fully mechanical surgical devices are also available in order to performthe above procedure. The mechanical devices require the application offorce to staple and cut the tissue. Many of the existing mechanicaldevices use four rows of staples in order to ensure the proper results.Due to the cutting and stapling functions, many of these mechanicalsurgical instruments require an excessive amount of force in order toeffectively perform their functions.

Therefore, an object of the present invention provides anelectro-mechanical that allows greater control of heat applied to thetissue by the bipolar electrodes and allows the use of less mechanicalforce when incorporating the use of mechanical force.

SUMMARY

The above and other beneficial objects and advantages of the presentinvention may be effectively attained by providing a bipolar, ultrasonicand/or electro-mechanical surgical device as described herein.

In an example embodiment and/or example method, the present inventionprovides for an electro-mechanical surgical device including a housing,at least two opposing jaw, and at least one electrical contactassociated with at least one of the jaws. In a further exampleembodiment of the present invention, the electrical contact is at leastone of a bipolar electrical contact and an ultrasonic electricalcontact.

In a further example embodiment and/or example method of the presentinvention, the surgical device includes a row of electrical contactsassociated with the at least one of the opposing jaws. In a furtherexample embodiment and/or example method of the present invention, thesurgical device includes at least two rows of electrical contactsassociated with at least one of the opposing jaws.

In a further example embodiment and/or example method of the presentinvention, the surgical device includes a sensor configured and arrangedto sense temperature of tissue disposed between the upper jaw and thelower jaw. In a further example embodiment and/or example method of thepresent invention, the sensor may be configured to transmit a signal tothe surgical device via, e.g., a data transfer cable, the signalindicating the temperature of the tissue disposed between the upper jawand the lower jaw. Further, the signal transmitted by the sensor mayeffect a movement of the jaw(s) and/or a change in the heating effect ofthe electrode(s) on the tissue.

In a further example embodiment and/or example method of the presentinvention, the surgical device includes, on at least one of the jaws, atleast one pierceable ampulla containing fluid so that the fluid isreleasable when the upper jaw and the lower jaw are in the closedposition and so that the electrode passes through the tissue disposedbetween the upper jaw and the lower jaw into the at least one pierceableampulla. That fluid may include, for example, a variety of fluids ormatters or dyes, for example, collagen, fibrin, dye, matter configuredto effect anastomosis, matter configured to seal tissue and matterconfigured to effect hemostasis, etc. In a further example embodimentand/or example method of the present invention, the electrode and/orrow(s) of electrodes may be activated so that the tissue is coagulatedto induce hemostasis.

In a further example embodiment and/or example method of the presentinvention, an electro-mechanical surgical system may include a surgicaldevice and a surgical instrument. The surgical device may include ahousing, an elongated shaft extending from the housing, a distal end ofthe elongated shaft configured to detachably couple with a surgicalinstrument, a steering arrangement, the steering arrangement configuredto steer the distal end of the elongated shaft, and a motor systemdisposed within the housing, the motor system configured to drive thedrive shafts and the steering arrangement. The surgical instrument mayinclude an upper jaw, a lower jaw, the lower jaw opposing the upper jawand the lower jaw configured to detachably couple with the distal end ofthe elongated shaft of the surgical device, and an electrode or row(s)of electrodes provided on at least one of the lower jaw and the upperjaw. The electrode(s) may be associated with any one of more of thejaws, such as, for example, the inner surface of an upper jaw of twoopposing jaws.

In a further example embodiment and/or example method of the presentinvention, one of the opposing jaws, e.g., the lower jaw, includes atleast two rows of staples and a cutting device.

In further example embodiments and/or example methods of the presentinvention, there may be a reduced number of staples and thus lessmechanical force to form staples and transect tissue. Further, exampleembodiments and/or example methods may use bipolar radio-frequency (RF)energy and/or staples to coagulate and cut tissue. Further, exampleembodiments and/or example methods may include one row of staples or nostaples. Further, example embodiments may include an energy surgicalattachment (DLU) which consists of two opposing jaws where the twoopposing jaws may include, e.g., one or two, rows of bipolar electricalcontacts.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 a is a perspective view of an electro-mechanical driver device,which may be coupled to the surgical device according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 1 b is a detailed view of the interior of a flexible shaft of theelectro-mechanical surgical device illustrated in FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 1 c is a schematic top view of a remote control unit of theelectro-mechanical surgical device.

FIG. 1 d is a perspective view of a surgical device according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 e is an example embodiment of a memory device according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 1 f is an end view of an example embodiment of a coupling.

FIG. 1 g is a front end view of a second coupling

FIG. 1 h is a schematic top view of another example embodiment of aremote control unit.

FIG. 2 a illustrates an example embodiment of parallel expanding jaws ina closed position.

FIG. 2 b illustrates an example embodiment of parallel expanding jaws inan open position.

FIG. 2 c illustrates an example embodiment of the components of theparallel expanding jaws in a closed position. FIG. 2 d illustrates anexample embodiment of the components of the parallel expanding jaws inan open position.

FIG. 2 e is cross-sectioned view of the parallel expanding jaws.

FIG. 2 f illustrates an example embodiment of the parallel expandingjaws where the lower jaw includes electrodes.

FIG. 2 g illustrates an example embodiment of the parallel expandingjaws where the lower jaw includes electrodes and a stapling mechanism.

FIG. 2 h illustrates another example embodiment of the parallelexpanding jaws where the lower jaw includes electrodes.

FIG. 2 i illustrates another example embodiment of the parallelexpanding jaws where the lower jaw includes electrodes and a staplingmechanism.

FIG. 2 j illustrates an example embodiment of the parallel expandingjaws which includes ultrasonic pins.

FIG. 2 k illustrates an example embodiment of the parallel expandingjaws which includes surgical barb pins.

FIG. 3 a illustrates an example embodiment of an electrode and stapleconfiguration according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 b illustrates an example embodiment of an electrode and stapleconfiguration disposed on a lower jaw.

FIG. 3 c illustrates an example embodiment of an electrode configurationdisposed on a lower jaw.

FIG. 3 d illustrates an example embodiment of an electrode configurationaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 3 e illustrates an example embodiment of an electrode configurationdisposed on a lower jaw.

FIG. 4 a illustrates an example embodiment of scissor-like jaws in aclosed position.

FIG. 4 b illustrates an example embodiment of scissor-like jaws in anopen position.

FIG. 5 a illustrates a perspective view of an example embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 5 b illustrates an example embodiment of a front panel of anelectro-mechanical device.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example embodiment of an electrode arrangementaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates another example embodiment of an electrodearrangement according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a side view of an example electrode configuration according tothe present invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example embodiment of an electrode configurationaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example embodiment of the present invention whichincludes the use of ultrasonic technology.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example embodiment where surgical barbs are usedas electrodes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG. 1 a, a perspective view of an electro-mechanicaldriver device 101 according to one example embodiment of the presentinvention is illustrated. Such an electro-mechanical driver device isdescribed in, for example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/723,715,entitled “Electro-Mechanical Surgical Device,” now U.S. Pat. No.6,793,652, which is expressly incorporated herein in its entirety byreference thereto. Electro-mechanical driver device 101 may include, forexample, a remote power console 102, which includes a housing 104 havinga front panel 103. Mounted on front panel 103 are a display device 106and indicators 108 a and 108 b. A flexible shaft 105 may extend fromhousing 104 and may be detachably secured thereto via a first coupling107. The distal end 109 of flexible shaft 105 may include a secondcoupling 106 adapted to detachably secure a surgical instrument orattachment to the distal end 109 of the flexible shaft 105. Inaccordance with the example embodiment of the present invention, thesurgical instrument or attachment may be, for example, a surgicalstapler and cutter device that utilizes electrical energy to cut and/orcoagulate tissue. Other surgical instruments are described, for example,in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/324,451, entitled “A StaplingDevice for Use with an Electro-mechanical Driver Device for Use withAnastomosing, Stapling, and Resecting Instruments,” now U.S. Pat. No.6,315,184, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/324,452, entitled“Electro-mechanical Driver Device for Use with Anastomosing, Stapling,and Resecting Instruments,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,443,973, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/351,534, entitled “Expanding Parallel Jaw DeviceFor Use With An Electromechanical Driver Device,” now U.S. Pat. No.6,264,087, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/510,926, entitled “AVessel and Lumen Expander Attachment for Use with an Electro-mechanicalDriver Device,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,348,061, U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/510,927, entitled “Electro-mechanical Driver and RemoteSurgical Instruments Attachment Having Computer Assisted ControlCapabilities,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,716,233, U.S. patent application Ser.No. 09/510,931, entitled “A Tissue Stapling Attachment for Use with anElectro-mechanical Driver Device,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,533,157, U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/510,932, entitled “A Fluid DeliveryMechanism for Use with Anastomosing, Stapling, and ResectingInstruments,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,491,201, and U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/510,933, entitled “A Fluid Delivery Device for Use withAnastomosing, Resecting and Stapling Instruments,” now U.S. Pat. No.6,488,197, each of which is expressly incorporated herein in itsentirety by reference thereto.

According to a further example embodiment, flexible shaft 105 mayinclude a tubular outer sheath, which may include a coating or othersealing arrangement to provide a fluid-tight seal between the interiorchannel thereof and the environment. The sheath may be formed of atissue-compatible, sterilizable elastomeric material. The sheath mayalso be formed of a material that is autoclavable. An example embodimentof such a flexible shaft, is described, for example, in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/099,634, entitled “Moisture-Detecting Shaft ForUse With An Electro-Mechanical Surgical Device,” now U.S. Pat. No.7,951,071, which is expressly incorporated herein in its entirety byreference thereto.

As illustrated in FIG. 1 b, disposed within the interior channel 150 ofthe flexible shaft 105, and extending along the length thereof, may be afirst rotatable drive shaft 152, a second rotatable drive shaft 154, afirst steering cable 156, a second steering cable 158, a third steeringcable 160, a fourth steering cable 162, one or more data transfer cables164, and/or two leads 166 and 168, all terminating at the secondcoupling 106, at the distal end 109 of the flexible shaft 105. The leads166 and 168 may be provided to, for example, transmit current to and/orfrom an attached surgical instrument or attachment. The remote powerconsole 102 may include a motor system, which includes one or moremotors configured to rotate the first and second rotatable drive shafts152, 154 and to apply tension or otherwise drive the steering cables tothereby steer the distal end 109 of the flexible shaft 105. An exampleembodiment of a motor arrangement is described, for example, in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/510,923, entitled “A Carriage AssemblyFor Controlling A Steering Wire Steering Mechanism Within A FlexibleShaft,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,517,565, which is expressly incorporatedherein in its entirety by reference thereto.

Referring to FIG. 1 c, there is shown a top schematic view of a remotecontrol unit (“RCU”) 130 for remotely controlling the electro-mechanicaldriver device 101 illustrated in FIG. 1 a. The RCU 130 may be, forexample, a wired remote control unit, a wireless remote control unit, ahybrid remote control unit, etc. The RCU 130 may include a number ofoperable control elements 300, 312, 314, 320 and 346 which may be, forexample, toggle switches, button switches, analog switches, controlknobs, potentiometers, etc. The RCU 130 may also include indicators 108a′, 108 b′ and a display device 110′. Although FIG. 1 c illustrates fivecontrol elements 300, 312, 314, 320 and 346, any appropriate number ofcontrol elements may be provided. In a further example embodiment of thepresent invention, RCU 130 may be configured to clamp onto the sheath ofthe flexible shaft 105.

Referring to FIG. 1 d, there is illustrated a perspective view of afurther example embodiment of the surgical device according to thepresent invention. The surgical device 200 may be used in combinationwith the electro-mechanical driver device 101 illustrated in FIG. 1 a.The surgical device 200 may also be used in combination with amanually-operable driver device.

The surgical device 200 according to the example embodiment includes acoupling 11 adapted and configured to detachably couple the surgicaldevice 200 with the second coupling device 106 of the flexible shaft 105of the driver device 101 illustrated in FIG. 1 a. The couplings 11, 106may include a quick-connect type fitting, such as a rotary quick-connecttype fitting, a bayonet type fitting, etc. The couplings 11 and 106 mayalso be threaded couplings. In an alternative example embodiment, thesurgical device 200 is permanently connected to or integral with thedriver device, electro-mechanical or manual, for example.

The surgical device 200 includes an upper jaw 4 a and a lower jaw 4 b.In the example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 d, the lower jaw 4 b isconnected to coupling 11.

Electrodes 3 a, 3 b may be provided on an inner surface of lower jaw 4b. In alternative example embodiments, electrodes may be provided on theupper jaw 4 a, or on both the upper jaw 4 a and the lower jaw 4 b. Inthis alternative example embodiment, the lower jaw 4 b may also includetwo rows of staples 201, 202 and a cutting device 203.

The surgical device 200 may also include sensors 205, 206. These sensorsmay be configured and arranged to, for example, sense the temperature oftissue disposed between jaws 4 a and 4 b. When coupled to the driverdevice 101 of FIG. 1 a, for example, signals from the sensors 205, 206may be transmitted to the driver device, e.g., via data transfer cables.

The upper jaw 4 a illustrated in FIG. 1 d may include pierceableampullae 5, which may contain fluid or matter to induce hemostasis. Thefluid may include, for example, collagen, fibrin, etc. The use of otherfluids or matters is, of course, possible. This fluid or matter, forexample, collagen, fibrin, dye, matter configured to effect anastomosis,matter configured to seal tissue and matter configured to effecthemostasis, etc. may be released when the jaws 4 a, 4 b are closed andthe electrodes 3 a, 3 b pass through the tissue and into the ampullae 5,releasing the fluid or matter. Simultaneously, the electrodes 3 a, 3 bare activated and tissue may be coagulated to induce hemostasis. Sensors205, 206 monitor the amount of heat provided and duration ofapplication. While the current passes between the electrodes 3 a, 3 b, adriver may advance to eject two rows of staples 201, 202 on either sideof the cutting device 203. In a further example embodiment, the staplingmechanism includes a replaceable tray or cartridge of open staples setwithin the lower jaw 4 b and a set of corresponding staple guides withinthe upper jaw 4 a, such that when the surgical device 200 is in a closedposition, the open staples are arranged to oppose the correspondingstaple guides. The stapling mechanism may also include a wedge pushingsystem whereby once the linear clamping mechanism is in a closedposition, a wedge arranged in a channel below the tray of open staplesis pushed through the channel. As the wedge moves through the channel, asloping surface of the wedge pushes the open staples against thecorresponding staple guides, thereby closing the staples. After thestaples have been closed, the wedge is pulled back through the channel.The second drive extension pushes or pulls the wedge through thechannel, depending on the turning direction of the corresponding motorin the, for example, electro-mechanical driver device, by engaging athreaded horizontal shaft upon which the wedge, having a matching innerthread, rides. An example embodiment of such a stapling device isdescribed, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/324,451,entitled “A Stapling Device For Use With An Electromechanical DriverDevice For Use With Anastomosing, Stapling, and Resecting Instruments,”now U.S. Pat. No. 6,315,184, and in U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/999,546, entitled “Surgical Device”, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,695,485,each of which is expressly incorporated herein in its entirety byreference thereto.

In a further example embodiment of the present invention, the surgicaldevice 200 includes a memory device 204. The memory device 204 may be,for example, a read-only memory, a programmable memory, a random accessmemory, etc. The memory device 204 may be configured and arranged tostore, for example, a unique serial number of the surgical device 200,and/or a device type indication. The memory device 204 may also beconfigured and arranged to store counter data indicating how may timesthe surgical device 200 has been used. When coupled to the driver device101 illustrated in FIG. 1 a, for example, this memory device 204 may beread by the driver device 101, e.g., via a data transfer cable. Inoperation, the surgical device 200 is first connected to theelectro-mechanical driver device 101 illustrated in FIG. 1 a viacoupling 11. A driver device may read the memory device 204 todetermine, for example, the device type, so that the driver device mayexecute the movements of the surgical device 200 in a suitable fashion.

FIG. 1 e is a schematic view of memory unit 204. As illustrated, dataconnector 742 includes contacts 744, each electrically and logicallyconnected to memory unit 204 via a respective line 748. Memory unit 204is configured to store, for example, a serial number data 715, anattachment type identifier (ID) data 725 and a usage data 735. Memoryunit 204 may additionally store other data. Both the serial number data715 and the ID data 725 may be configured as read-only data. In theexample embodiment, serial number data 715 is data uniquely identifyingthe particular surgical instrument or attachment, whereas the ID data725 is data identifying the type of the attachment, such as, forexample, a bipolar surgical device, an ultrasonic surgical device, acircular surgical stapler attachment, a linear surgical staplerattachment, etc. The usage data 735 represents usage of the particularattachment, such as, for example, the number of times that jaws 4 a, 4 bof surgical device 200 have been actuated.

Each type of surgical instrument or attachment attachable to the distalend 109 of the flexible shaft 105 may be designed and configured to beused a single time or multiple times. The surgical instrument orattachment may also be designed and configured to be used apredetermined number of times. Accordingly, the usage data 735 may beused to determine whether the surgical instrument or attachment has beenused and whether the number of uses has exceeded the maximum number ofpermitted uses. In a further example embodiment, an attempt to use asurgical instrument or attachment after the maximum number of permitteduses has been reached may generate an ERROR condition.

A controller within the electro-mechanical device 101, for example, asillustrated in FIG. 1 a, may be configured to execute an operatingprogram or algorithm based on the read ID data 725. Such a controller isdescribed, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/723,715,entitled “Electro-Mechanical Surgical Device”, now U.S. Pat. No.6,793,652, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/836,781 entitled“Electro-Mechanical Surgical Device,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,981,941, eachof which is expressly incorporated herein in its entirety by referencethereto. The remote power console 102, for example, as illustrated inFIG. 1 a, may include a memory unit which may be configured to store theoperating programs or algorithms for each available type of surgicalinstrument or attachment, the controller selects and/or reads theoperating program or algorithm from the memory unit in accordance withthe ID data 725 read from the memory unit 204 of an attached surgicalinstrument or attachment. The operating programs or algorithms stored inthe memory unit may be updated, added, deleted, improved or otherwiserevised as necessary. In a further example embodiment, the serial numberdata 715 and/or usage data 735 may also be used to determine which of aplurality of operating programs or algorithms is read or selected fromthe memory unit. In a further example embodiment, the operating programor algorithm may alternatively be stored in the memory unit 204 of thesurgical instrument or attachment and transferred to the controller viathe data transfer cables 164. Once the appropriate operating program oralgorithm is read or selected by, or transmitted to, the controller, thecontroller may cause the operating program or algorithm to be executedin accordance with operations performed by the user, e.g., via the RCU130. The controller may be electrically and logically connected with oneor more motors arranged in the remote power console 102, for example, asillustrated in FIG. 1 a, and may be configured to control these motorsin accordance with the read, selected or transmitted operating programor algorithm.

According to a further example embodiment of the present invention,surgical device 200 includes a system configured to open and close thejaws 4 a, 4 b relative to one another, and a system configured to drivethe staples 201, 202 and to drive the cutting device 203. Examples ofsuch systems are described in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/324,421, entitled “Alignment Device And Lithographic ApparatusComprising Such A Device,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,417,922, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/324,451, entitled “A Stapling Device For UseWith An Electromechanical Driver Device For Use With Anastomosing,Stapling, and Resecting Instruments,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,315,184, U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/351,534, entitled “Expanding Parallel JawDevice For Use With An Electromechanical Driver Device,” now U.S. Pat.No. 6,264,087, each of which is expressly incorporated herein in itsentirety by reference thereto.

FIG. 1 f is an end view of an example embodiment of coupling 107illustrated in FIG. 1 a. The coupling 107 includes a first connector444, a second connector 448, a third connector 452 and a fourthconnector 456, each rotatably secured to the coupling 107. Each of theconnectors 444, 448, 452 and 456 includes a respective recess 446, 450,454 and 458. As illustrated in FIG. 1 f, each recess 446, 450, 454 and458 may be hexagonally shaped. It should be appreciated, however, thatthe recesses 446, 450, 454 and 458 may have any shape and configurationto non-rotatably couple and rigidly attach the connectors 444, 448, 452,456 to respective drive shafts of a motor arrangement contained withindriver device 101 illustrated in FIG. 1 a. Complementary projections maybe provided on respective drive shafts of the motor arrangement tothereby drive the drive elements of the flexible shaft 105. It shouldalso be appreciated that the recesses may be provided on the driveshafts and complementary projections may be provided on the connectors444, 448, 452, 456. Any other coupling arrangement configured tonon-rotatably and releasably couple the connectors 444, 448, 452, 456and the drive shafts of the motor arrangement may be provided. Coupling107 also includes contacts 500, 501 configured to transfer additionalvoltage from the remote power console 102 through flexible shaft 105.

One of the connectors 444, 448, 452, 456 is non-rotatably secured to thefirst drive shaft 152, and another one of the connectors 444, 448, 452,456 is non-rotatably secured to the second drive shaft 154. Theremaining two of the connectors engage with transmission elementsconfigured to apply tensile forces on the steering cables 156, 158, 160and 162 to thereby steer the distal end 109 of the flexible shaft 205.The data transfer cable 164 is electrically and logically connected withdata connector 460. Data connector 460 includes, for example, electricalcontacts 462, corresponding to and equal in number to the number ofindividual wires contained in the data cable 164. First coupling 422includes a key structure 442 to properly orient the first coupling 422to a mating and complementary coupling arrangement disposed on thehousing 104. Such key structure 442 may be provided on either one, orboth, of the first coupling 422 and the mating and complementarycoupling arrangement disposed on the housing 104. First coupling 422 mayinclude a quick-connect type connector, which may be configured, forexample, so that a simple pushing motion engages the first coupling 422to the housing 104. Seals may be provided in conjunction with any of theseveral connectors to provide a fluid-tight seal between the interior offirst coupling 422 and the environment.

FIG. 1 g is a front end view of the second coupling 106 of flexibleshaft 105. Second coupling 106 includes a first connector 660 and asecond connector 680, each rotatably secured to the second coupling 106and each non-rotatably secured to a distal end of a respective one ofthe first and second drive shafts 152, 154. A quick-connect type fitting645 is provided on the second coupling 106 to detachably secure asurgical instrument or attachment thereto. The quick-connect typefitting 645 may include, for example, a rotary quick-connect typefitting, a bayonet type fitting, etc. A key structure 740 is provided onthe second coupling 106 to properly align the surgical instrument orattachment to the second coupling 106. The key structure or otherarrangement to properly align the surgical instrument or attachment tothe flexible shaft 105 may be provided on either one, or both, of thesecond coupling 106 and the surgical instrument or attachment. Inaddition, the quick-connect type fitting may be provided on the surgicalinstrument or attachment. A data connector 700, having electricalcontacts 720, is also provided in the second coupling 106. Like the dataconnector 60 of first coupling 422, the data connector 700 of secondcoupling 106 includes contacts 720 electrically and logically connectedto the respective wires of data transfer cable 164 and contacts 462 ofdata connector 460. Seals may be provided in conjunction with theconnectors 660, 680, 700 to provide a fluid-tight seal between theinterior of second coupling 106 and the environment. In a furtherexample embodiment, electrical contacts 620, 640 receive any additionalvoltage that may be sent from the remote power console 102 to thesurgical instrument or device. In a further example embodiment, thesurgical instrument or device may use the additional voltage provided byelectrical contacts 620, 640 to charge electrodes that may be includedwithin the surgical instrument or device.

FIG. 1 h illustrates an example embodiment of a wireless RCU 130 whichprovides the user with controls for the electro-mechanical device 101and the surgical device 200. Wireless RCU 130 includes a steeringengage/disengage switch 312, the operation of which controls theoperation of one or more motors in order to selectively engage anddisengage the steering mechanism. Wireless RCU 130 also may include atwo-way rocker 314 having first and second switches 316, 318 operablethereby. The operation of these switches 316, 318 controls certainfunctions of the electro-mechanical surgical device 101 and any surgicalinstrument or attachment attached to the flexible shaft 105 inaccordance with the operating program or algorithm corresponding to theattached surgical instrument or attachment, if any. For example,operation of the two-way rocker 314 may control the advancement andretraction of the flexible shaft 105. Wireless RCU 130 is provided withyet another switch 320, the operation of which may further control theoperation of the electro-mechanical surgical device 101 and any surgicalinstrument or attachment attached to the flexible shaft 20 in accordancewith the operating program or algorithm corresponding to the attachedsurgical instrument or attachment, if any. For example, when thesurgical device 200 is attached to the flexible shaft 105, operation ofthe switch 320 may initiate the advancement of staples into tissuebetween jaws 4 a, 4 b.

Wireless RCU 130 may also include a controller 322, which iselectrically and logically connected with the switches 302, 304, 306,308 via line 324, with the switches 316, 318 via line 326, with switch312 via line 328 and with switch 320 via line 330. Wireless RCU 130 mayinclude indicators 108 a′, 108 b′, corresponding to the indicators 108a, 108 b of front panel 103, and a display device 110′, corresponding tothe display device 110 of the front panel 103. If provided, theindicators 108 a′, 108 b′ are electrically and logically connected tocontroller 322 via respective lines 332, 334, and the display device110′ is electrically and logically connected to controller 322 via line336. Controller 322 is electrically and logically connected to atransceiver 338 via line 340, and transceiver 338 is electrically andlogically connected to a receiver/transmitter 342 via line 344. A powersupply, for example, a battery, may be provided in wireless RCU 130 topower the same. Thus, the wireless RCU 130 may be used to control theoperation of the electro-mechanical surgical device 101 and any surgicalinstrument or attachment attached to the flexible shaft 105 via wirelesslink 160.

Wireless RCU 130 may include a switch 346 connected to controller 322via line 348. Operation of switch 346 transmits a data signal to thetransmitter/receiver 146 of the remote power console 102, for example asillustrated in FIG. 1 a, via wireless link 160. The data signal mayinclude, for example, identification data uniquely identifying thewireless RCU 130. This identification data may be used by a controllerwithin the electro-mechanical surgical or driver device 101 to preventunauthorized operation of the electro-mechanical driver device 101 andto prevent interference with the operation of the electro-mechanicaldriver device 101 by another wireless RCU. Each subsequent communicationbetween the wireless RCU 130 and the electro-mechanical driver device101 may include the identification data. Thus, the controller maydiscriminate between wireless RCUs and thereby allow only a single,identifiable wireless RCU 130 to control the operation of theelectro-mechanical driver device 101 and any surgical instrument orattachment attached to the flexible shaft 105. In another exampleembodiment, RCU 130 is connected to remote power console 102, forexample, as illustrated in FIG. 1 a, via wires or an optical connection.

FIGS. 2 a to 2 e illustrates further example embodiments of a surgicaldevice 200′ having expandable jaws that remain parallel. In such exampleembodiments, surgical device 200′ includes a parallel separable jawsystem that has a lower jaw 40 b and an upper jaw 40 a having a proximalend 220.

Referring to FIGS. 2 c, 2 d and 2 e, the proximal end 220 of the upperjaw 40 a has a pair of threaded vertical bores 225, through which extenda corresponding pair of vertical shafts 227. Inner threads 226 of thevertical bores 225 match outer threads 228 of the vertical shafts 227.The vertical shafts 227 engage a threaded upper horizontal shaft 235 ata distal end 240 of the upper horizontal shaft 235. Outer threads 237 ofthe upper horizontal shaft 235 interlock with the outer threads 228 ofthe vertical shafts 227. The upper horizontal shaft 235 has at aproximal end 242, an upper drive socket 244.

The example embodiments of the surgical device 200′ as illustrated inFIGS. 2 a to 2 e attaches to coupling 106 of the electro-mechanicaldriver device 101 such that an upper drive socket 244 and a lower drivesocket 272, illustrated in FIG. 2 e, engages the flexible shaft 105 atthe distal end 109. Thus, rotation of the upper horizontal shaft 235 iseffected by rotation of the upper drive socket 244 which is effected byrotation of the corresponding flexible drive shaft of flexible shaft105. Clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation is achieved depending onthe direction of the corresponding motor within the remote power console102. Similarly, rotation of the lower horizontal shaft 287 is effectedby rotation of the lower drive socket 272 which is effected by rotationof the corresponding flexible drive shaft of flexible shaft 105. Also,the clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation of the lower horizontalshaft 287 is achieved depending on the direction of the correspondingmotor within remote power console 102. Surgical device 200′ alsoincludes contact nodes 254′, 256′ which transfer additional voltage tosurgical device 200′.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2 c and 2 d, the surgical device 200′ furtherincludes a first sensor electrode 250 configured to electricallycommunicate via communication wires with a first contact pad 251, whichis configured to electrically communicate with a second contact pad viadirect contact, which is configured to electrically communicate viacommunications wires with a first contact node 254, as illustrated inFIGS. 2 c and 2 d. Similarly, the surgical device 200′ further includesa second sensor electrode 252 configured to electrically communicate viacommunication wires with a second contact node 256. The contact nodes254, 256 are configured to electrically communicate with communicationwires in the electro-mechanical driver device 101 to form a sensorcircuit, such that when the upper jaw 40 a and the lower jaw 40 b areclamped together, the sensor electrodes 250, 252 are in contact, thesensor circuit is closed, and the surgeon is alerted via other circuitcomponents to the clamped position of the jaws 40 a, 40 b, and istherefore informed that it is safe and/or appropriate to active thestapling mechanism.

The example embodiment illustrated may include a wedge pushing systemwithin lower jaw 40 b. FIGS. 2 c and 2 d show the wedge pushing systemincluding a replaceable tray or cartridge 275 housing one or morefastening staples, and an upper jaw 40 a one or more staple guides 284corresponding to the staples 280. Each of the staples 280 has a butt 282protruding below the tray 275 and a pair of prongs 284 extending to thetop of the tray 275. The wedge pushing system further includes a wedgeguide, or channel 286, illustrated in FIG. 2 e, extending beneath thetray 275. Within the channel 286 extends a threaded lower horizontalshaft 287 having outer threads 288. Upon the lower horizontal shaft 287is arranged a wedge 289 having a sloped top face 290, a horizontalthreaded bore 292 coaxial with the channel 286, having inner threads 293matching the outer threads 288 of the lower horizontal threaded shaft287, and an upwardly extending cutting member 277.

FIGS. 2 f to 2 k illustrate various electrode and/or stapling mechanismconfigurations associated with the surgical device 200′ illustrated inFIGS. 2 a to 2 e. FIG. 2 f is a side view of the jaws 40 a, 40 b. Asillustrated in FIG. 2 f, the surgical device 200′ includes electrodes 30disposed over lower jaw 40 b, a pierceable ampullae 32 c, which may besimilar to pierceable ampullae 5 described above, and sensors 250, 252.Electrodes 30 protrude from the lower jaw 40 b and are applied to andmay pierce tissue placed between the jaws in order to anastomose thetissue. Accordingly, the electrodes 30 may be rigid and conductive inregard to the material used for their construction. The electrodes 30may also have features that may enhance tissue penetrating attributesand electrical contact between any opposing electrodes. Variousconfigurations may be provided to enhance contact with tissue whereelectrode height, width and density of spacing are adjusted in order toaccommodate various tissue thickness and texture. The electrodes 30 arecharged through voltage sent from remote power console 102 through leads166, 168 of flexible shaft 105. Contact nodes 254′, 256′ electricallyconnect to electrical contacts 620, 640 of coupling 106 and currentflows through to electrodes 30. As described above, electrical contacts620, 640 are electrically connected to leads 166, 168 of the flexibleshaft 105. Sensors 250, 252 monitor the amount of heat generated by thecharging of electrodes 30 and duration of application. Sensors 250, 252transfer signals to the remote power console 102 which provides the userwith information regarding current conditions related to the operationof the surgical device 200′.

FIG. 2 g illustrates the electrodes 30 used in conjunction the wedgepushing system as described above. In this example embodiment, the wedgepushing system is similar the wedge pushing system as described withreference to FIGS. 2 e to 2 d. The wedge pushing system is operated inconjunction with the electrodes 30 in order to coagulate and/oranastomose tissue between the parallel jaws 40 a, 40 b.

FIG. 2 h illustrates an electrode configuration of another exampleembodiment of the present invention. As illustrated electrodes 30 aredisposed over the inner face of the lower jaw 40 b. The electrodes 30are charged positively and receptacles 20 are negatively charged(ground) and configured for alignment with electrodes 30. Thisconfiguration induces current to flow from lower jaw 40 b to the upperjaw 40 a when the jaws 40 a, 40 b are closed. The amount of RF energytransferred between jaws 40 a, 40 b may be varied depending upon whetherstaples are used in conjunction with the electrodes, as illustrated inFIG. 2 i, or if the anastomose is performed solely through the use ofthe electrode configuration. In an example embodiment, the electrodes 30and receptacles 20 electrically communicate with the remote powerconsole 102 through contact nodes 254′, 256′ as described above inreference to FIGS. 2 f and 2 g. As described above with reference toFIG. 2 g, FIG. 2 i illustrates the electrode configuration illustratedin FIG. 2 h used in conjunction with the wedge pushing system whichprovides a stapling mechanism.

FIG. 2 j illustrates yet another example embodiment of the presentinvention is illustrated. The electrode configuration illustrated inFIG. 2 j provides ultrasonic energy which is transmitted throughultrasonic resonator pins 27 which are configured on the inner surfaceof the lower jaw 4 b. Similar to the electrode configurations describedabove, the ultrasonic pins 27 may be configured in various formationsconducive to the type and form of the tissue which is placed between thejaws for coagulation, anastomosing and/or cutting. In addition to theultrasonic resonator pins 27, the lower jaw 4 b also includes anultrasonic transducer 25. The ultrasonic transducer 25 generates theultrasonic energy that resonates through the pins 27. The ultrasonicresonator pins 27 may be used with or without staples, as described withregard to the electrode configurations above, enable the reduction ofthe number of staples used or the elimination thereof and lessen themechanical force needed in order to complete coagulation and cutting.The ultrasonic energy use in this example embodiment may be transmittedthrough contact nodes 254′, 256′ as described in the foregoing exampleembodiments.

FIG. 2 k illustrates yet another example embodiment of the presentinvention in which electrodes 29 are configured as surgical barbs. Theconfiguration of electrodes 29 provide for an improved configuration forpenetrating tissue. The electrodes 29 may follow the polarity schemesdescribed above in order apply RF energy to the tissue. The electrodes29 may be used as illustrated with electrodes arranged on the lower jaw40 b only. However this surgical barb type electrode may also bearranged on the inner surface of the upper jaw 40 a in order to provideeven more effective penetrating results. Furthermore, as described abovewith reference to FIG. 2 f, a pierceable ampulla 32 c may beincorporated in the upper jaw 40 a and used to induce hemostasis. Theelectrodes 29 receive the RF energy through contact nodes 254′, 256′ asdescribed in the foregoing example embodiments.

FIG. 3 a is a view of an example electrode/staple configuration whichmay be disposed on the inner surface of lower jaw 4 a or lower jaw 40 a.As illustrated, in this example embodiment, this configuration includestwo rows of electrodes 30 a, 30 b, two rows of staples 32 a, 32 b and acutting device 34. The cutting device 34 is between the rows of staples32 a, 32 b, and electrodes 30 a, 30 b is outside of the rows of staples32 a, 32 b. The polarities 36 associated with the respective electrodesare indicated to the left of electrodes 30 a. In this exampleembodiment, the polarities 36 of the electrodes alternate betweenpositive (“+”) and negative (“−”) along the vertical row of electrodes.In operation, the RF energy applied to the electrodes corresponds thepolarities as indicated. The alternating polarities allow for current topass from one electrode to another where the current travels parallel tothe electrode members 30 a, 30 b. In an alternative example embodiment,each row of electrodes may be either all positive or all negative. Inthis example embodiment, corresponding contacts of opposite polarity maybe provided on the upper jaw 4 b.

FIG. 3 b illustrates the electrode and staple configuration of FIG. 3 aon the lower jaw 40 b. The example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 bincludes the rows of electrodes 30 a and 30 b which during operationreceive their charge via current supplied through leads 166, 168 offlexible shaft 105 from the remote power console 102, as describedabove. The polarities associated with the rows of electrodes 30 a, 30 bmay vary as described above and illustrated in FIG. 3 a. In one exampleembodiment, the user controls the movement of flexible shaft 105, theactuation of jaws, the movement of staples and the polarities and chargeassociated with the electrodes by using RCU 130 in conjunction withremote power console 102.

The configuration illustrated in FIG. 3 a may be placed on the innersurface of the lower jaw 4 b, 40 b or disposed on both jaws of surgicaldevice 200. The electrodes 30 a, 30 b provided may be bipolar and may bearranged in various configurations which create either alternating oropposing polarities as explained below in the various exampleembodiments described. In operation, the present invention may be usedwith one row of staples or no staples to enable the closure of tissue.

If the configuration illustrated in FIG. 3 a is used on the innersurfaces of both jaws 4 a, 4 b, the polarities of electrodes may be thesame for both jaws 4 a, 4 b which may allow current to flow parallel tothe respective columns of electrodes. Alternatively, the polarities ofthe electrodes may be switch between the jaws 4 a, 4 b, where oppositepolarities may exist for the respective corresponding electrode columnsbetween the jaws 4 a, 4 b which may allow current to flow between jaws 4a, 4 b once they are in a closed position.

Another example embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 3 c, in which two rowsof electrodes 30 a and 30 b are illustrated without any staples orstapling configuration. The example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 csolely involves the use of electrodes which may induce an appropriatelevel of heat in order to coagulate tissue during operation. FIG. 3 dillustrates an alternative electrode configuration. The electrodes arearranged with two electrode rows on each side of cutting device 34. FIG.3 e illustrates the dual row of electrode configuration 30 a, 30 b onthe inner surface of lower jaw 40 b.

In another example embodiment of the present invention, staple lines maybe removed from the electrode configuration as illustrated in FIGS. 3 cand 3 d. FIG. 3 d illustrates four rows of electrodes 30 a, 30 b wheretwo columns are placed on each side of the cutting device 34. Theelectrodes may have alternating polarities of RF energy applied in orderto produce a current flow. Polarities may alternate vertically, or anentire column of electrodes may be positively charged and the respectiveadjacent column may be negatively charged in order to induce currentflow between the two columns on each respective side of cutting device34. As described with the electrode configuration illustrated in FIG. 3a, the electrode configurations illustrated in FIGS. 3 c and 3 d may beplaced on both inner surfaces of jaws 4 a, 4 b. Also, the upper jaw 4 amay incorporate pierceable ampulla and function, as described above,with electrodes 30 as illustrated in FIG. 2 f. In the exampleembodiments, described above, electrodes configured to pierce tissue areillustrated. Of course, it is also possible to use surface-typeelectrodes to perform coagulation and/or anastomosing.

FIGS. 4 a and 4 b illustrate two alternative example embodiments ofsurgical device 200 according to the present invention. The firstexample embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 4 a, includes a separating jawsystem including a lower jaw 4 b, an upper jaw 4 a and a coupling 11.Coupling 11 includes two hexagonal shaped sockets 556 a, 556 b intowhich coupling 106 of flexible shaft 105 fits. Each of the sockets isformed in the end of a corresponding horizontal turning shaft 558 a, 558b. The upper horizontal turning shaft 558 a is coupled, by a transversegearing member, to a threaded vertical shaft 560 which extends through acorrespondingly threaded bore 562 of the upper jaw 4 a. The upper jaw 4a has a linear track coupling means 566 which corresponds and couples toa linear track 568 formed in the side of the interface end member 554which is opposite the driver coupling sockets 556 a, 556 b. Subsequentturning of the upper horizontal turning shaft 558 a causes the verticalturning shaft 560 to turn. As this shaft 560 turns, the upper jaw 4 arides up and down within the track of the end member 554.

The lower horizontal turning shaft 558 b extends axially through thelower jaw 4 b, which, in turn is fixed to the proximal end member 554.Mounted around this axially extending shaft 558 b is a wedge drivermechanism 566 which includes a threaded bore. This threaded member 566is locked within a track 567, which prevents the member 566 fromrotating when the shaft 558 b turns. Rather, the wedge member 566 rideslinearly along the track 567 and along the threading of the shaft 558 b.Mounted within a recess 568 in the face of the lower jaw 4 b whichopposes the upper jaw 4 a directly above the wedge member 566 is areplaceable tray of staples. The wedge driver has a sloped frontalsurface 572 which contacts the staples 282 and causes it to be drivenupwardly. When the upper jaw 4 a is in close proximity to the lower jaw4 b, the staples are closed when they contact the opposing face of theupper jaw 4 a by the action of staple closing guide recesses 576 formedtherein.

At the distal tip of the upper and lower jaws are two opposing magneticsensors 578 a, 578 b, each coupled to a circuit component which connectsto the electro-mechanical driver 102 via flexible shaft 105. When thejaws come together, the circuit is closed, and indicators 108 a and 108b provide a signal indicating that the staples may be safely fired.

Referring now FIG. 4 b, another example embodiment of the surgicaldevice 200 of the present invention is described. In the exampleembodiment, the coupling 11 is substantially equivalent to the firstexample embodiment. As before, the shafts of the driver component turnrotating members within the attachment. In this example embodimenthowever, both turning members 558 a, 558 b are horizontal. Mounted tothe shaft interfacing member is a fixed lower jaw 4 b and a moving upperjaw 4 a. In this example embodiment, the upper jaw 4 a is mounted to thelower jaw 4 b by a spring loaded pivot, which biases the upper jaw 4 ainto an open disposition relative to the lower jaw 4 b. Mounted to theupper turning shaft however, is a linearly tracked cuff 587 which seatsaround the upper and lower jaw, the advancement of which causes the jawsto come together. The lower jaw includes the same staple 574 tray recessand linearly driven threaded wedge staple pushing mechanism 566. Also,the electromagnetic sensor and circuit of the first example embodimentis included to indicate to the surgeon when the section of tissue hasbeen fully clamped and the staples should be driven.

More particularly, after the surgeon has resected the diseased portionof the tissue, the end of the tissue is placed between the jaws of theattachment. By actuating a trigger and driving the upper shaft, the cuffmember 587 advances axially along the outside of the upper and lowerjaws 4 a, 4 b, thus closing the upper jaw onto the tissue and lower jaw.Once fully closed, the electromagnetic sensor circuit indicates to thesurgeon operator that the staples may be fired, and correspondingly,actuation of the second trigger causes the wedge driver to advance anddrive the staples through the tissue section. Reverse rotation of themotor for the upper turning shaft causes the cuff to retract and theupper jaw to open, thus releasing the now-sealed tissue end.

The surgical device 200 as illustrated in FIGS. 4 a and 4 b may alsoinclude electrodes used either in conjunction with the staplingmechanism or alone. FIG. 4 b illustrates a row of electrodes 30 disposedalong the lower jaw 4 b. The electrodes 30 may receive RF energy throughcontacts 553, 555, similar to the energy transfer to the electrodes ofthe surgical device 200′ as described above. Furthermore, the exampleembodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4 a and 4 b may include pierceableampullae as described above with reference to FIGS. 1 d and 2 f. Thesurgical device 200 as illustrated in FIGS. 4 a and 4 b, may incorporatethe various electrode and/or stapling configurations described abovewith reference to FIGS. 3 a to 3 e.

FIG. 5 a is a perspective view of the present invention. Upper jaw 4 aand lower jaw 4 b are attached to a shaft 11 which connects to aelectro-mechanical device 6. In operation, these jaws 4 a, 4 b areclosed in order to coagulate and cut tissue positioned between them. Asillustrated, the jaws 4 a, 4 b are attached to a first end of shaft 11wherein the second end of shaft 11 connects to the electro-mechanicaldevice 6. The electro-mechanical device 6 controls the movement of shaft11 and jaws 4 a, 4 b. The shaft 11 may be flexible or rigid and mayenable the mechanical actuation of the jaws 4 a, 4 b. The jaws 4 a, 4 bmay include electrode members 3 a, 3 b on the inner surface of lower jaw4 b, or the electrode members 3 a, 3 b may be provided on both jaws 4 aand 4 b. The electrode members 3 a, 3 b provided on the lower jaw 4 bmay be bipolar and may be arranged in various configurations whichcreate either alternating or opposing polarities. In operation, thepresent invention may be used with one row of staples or no staples toenable the closure of tissue. The jaws 4 a, 4 b mechanically andelectrically accomplish the desired functions, i.e., cutting andcoagulating tissue.

The second end of the shaft 11, illustrated in FIG. 5 a, connects toelectro-mechanical device 6, illustrated in FIG. 5 b, at a shaftconnection 7. The shaft 11 includes cables which transmit signals thatcontrol the movement of the DLU and the actuation of jaws 4 a, 4 b.

FIG. 5 b illustrates other components of front panel 9, including adisplay device 8 and indicators 10 a, 10 b which provide positioninginformation to the user.

FIG. 6 illustrates an electrode configuration according to the presentinvention. This electrode configuration may be provided on the innersurface of lower jaw 4 b or on both jaws 4 a, 4 b. The inner surface oflower jaw 4 b includes two columns of electrode members 3 a, 3 b, twostaple lines 2 a, 2 b and a cutting blade 12. The cutting blade 12 isbetween the staple lines 2 a, 2 b and electrode members 3 a, 3 b isoutside of the staple lines 2 a, 2 b. The polarities associated with therespective electrodes are indicated to the left of electrode members 3a. The polarities of the electrodes alternate between + and − along thevertical column of electrodes. In operation, the RF energy applied tothe electrodes corresponds the polarities as indicated. The alternatingpolarities allow for current to pass from one electrode to another wherethe current travels parallel to the electrode members 3 a, 3 b.

The upper jaw 4 a may incorporate pierceable ampulla 5, shown in FIG. 5a, which may contain fluid for hemostasis. This fluid or matter, e.g.,collagen, fibrin, dye, matter configured to effect anastomosis, matterconfigured to seal tissue and matter configured to effect hemostasis,etc., may be released when the jaws 4 a, 4 b are closed and theelectrode members 3 a, 3 b pass through the tissue and into the ampulla5 thus releasing the fluid. Simultaneously, the electrode members 3 a, 3b are activated and tissue may be coagulated to induce hemostasis.Sensors may be configured and arranged to monitor the amount of heatprovided and duration of application. In another example embodiment,while the current is passing between the electrode members 3 a, 3 b, adriver may advance to form two single rows of staples 2 a, 2 b on eitherside of the cutting blade 12. In each of these example embodiments, thestapling mechanism includes a replaceable tray of open staples setwithin the lower jaw 4 b and a set of corresponding staple guides withinthe upper jaw 4 a, such that when the linear clamping mechanism is in aclosed position, the open staples immediately oppose the correspondingstaple guides. The stapling mechanism further includes a wedge pushingsystem whereby once the linear clamping mechanism is in a closedposition, a wedge riding in a channel below the tray of open staples ispushed through the channel. As the wedge moves through the channel, asloping surface of the wedge pushes the open staples against thecorresponding staple guides, thereby closing the staples. After thestaples have been closed, the wedge is pulled back through the channel.The second drive extension pushes or pulls the wedge through thechannel, depending on the turning direction of the corresponding motorin the electro-mechanical driver, by engaging a threaded horizontalshaft upon which the wedge, having a matching inner thread, rides.

If the configuration illustrated in FIG. 6 is provided on the innersurfaces of both jaws 4 a, 4 b, the polarities of electrode members maybe the same for both jaws 4 a, 4 b which may allow current to flowparallel to the respective columns of electrodes. Alternatively, thepolarities of the electrode members may be switch between the jaws 4 a,4 b, where opposite polarities would exist for the respectivecorresponding electrode columns between the jaws 4 a, 4 b which wouldallow current to flow between jaws 4 a, 4 b once they are in a closedposition.

In another example embodiment of the present invention, staple lines maybe removed from the electrode configuration as illustrated in FIG. 7.FIG. 7 illustrated four rows of electrode members 3 a, 3 b, includingtwo columns are placed on each side of the cutting blade 12. Theelectrode members may have alternating polarities of RF energy appliedin order to produce a current flow. Polarities may alternate verticallyor an entire column of electrodes may be positively charged and therespective adjacent column may be negatively charged in order to inducecurrent flow between the two columns on each respective side of cuttingblade 12. As described with reference to the electrode configurationillustrated in FIG. 6, the electrode configuration illustrated in FIG. 7may be placed on both inner surfaces of jaws 4 a, 4 b. Also, the upperjaw 4 a may incorporate pierceable ampulla and function, as describedabove, with electrode members 3 a, 3 b as illustrated in FIG. 7.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the jaws 4 a, 4 b. The electrode members 3protrude from the lower jaw 4 b and are applied to tissue placed betweenthe jaws in order to perform anastomosing, sealing and/or stapling.Accordingly, the electrodes may be rigid, flexible, elastic, inelastic,planar, non-planar, etc., with regard to the material used for theirconstruction. The electrode members 3 may also have features that mayenhance tissue penetrating attributes and electrical contact between anyopposing electrodes. Various configurations may be employed to enhancecontact with tissue where electrode height, width and density of spacingare adjusted in order to accommodate various tissue thickness andtexture.

FIG. 9 illustrates an electrode configuration of another exampleembodiment of the present invention. As illustrated electrode members 15are disposed over the inner face of the lower jaw 4 b. The electrodes 15are charged positively and receptacles 20 are negatively charged(ground) and configured to align with electrodes 15. This configurationinduces current to flow from lower jaw 4 b to the upper jaw 4 a when thejaws 4 a, 4 b are closed. The amount of RF energy transferred betweenjaws 4 a, 4 b may be varied depending upon whether staples are used inconjunction with the electrodes or if the anastomose is performed solelythrough the use of the electrode configuration. FIG. 10 illustratesanother example embodiment of the present invention. The electrodeconfiguration illustrated in FIG. 10 provides ultrasonic levels ofenergy which are transmitted through ultrasonic resonator pins 27 whichare configured on the inner surface of the lower jaw 4 b. Similar to theelectrodes described above, the ultrasonic pins 27 may be configured invarious formations conducive to the type and form of the tissue which isplaced between the jaws for coagulation, anastomosing and/or cutting. Inaddition to the ultrasonic resonator pins 27, the lower jaw 4 b alsoincludes an ultrasonic transducer 25. The ultrasonic transducer 25 isconfigured to generate the ultrasonic energy that resonates through thepins 27. The ultrasonic resonator pins 27 may be used with or withoutstaples and as described above with reference to the electrodeconfigurations, enable the reduction of the number of staples used andlessen the mechanical force necessary in order to complete coagulationand cutting.

FIG. 11 illustrates another example embodiment of the present invention.The electrodes 29 are configured as surgical barbs. The configuration ofelectrodes 29 provide for an improved configuration for penetratingtissue. The electrodes 29 may follow the polarity schemes describedabove in order to apply RF energy to the tissue. The electrodes 29 maybe used as illustrated with electrodes arranged on the lower jaw 4 bonly, however this surgical barb type electrode may be arranged on theinner surface of the upper jaw 4 a in order to provide even moreeffective penetrating results. Furthermore, as described above,pierceable ampulla 5 may be provided in the upper jaw 4 a and used toinduce hemostasis.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous modifications ofthe example embodiment described hereinabove may be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. Although exampleembodiments and/or example methods of the present invention have beendescribed and disclosed in detail herein, it should be understood thatthis invention is in no sense limited thereby and that its scope is tobe determined by that of the appended claims.

1-26. (canceled)
 27. A method for performing a procedure on tissue of abody, comprising: providing an electro-mechanical surgical device,including: a first jaw; a second jaw opposing the first jaw, the firstjaw and the second jaw configured to clamp tissue therebetween; aplurality of ultrasonic resonator pins arranged on at least one of thefirst jaw and the second jaw; and an ultrasonic transducer configured tosupply ultrasonic energy to the plurality of ultrasonic resonator pins;relatively moving the first jaw and the second jaw to clamp tissuetherebetween and to bring the plurality of ultrasonic resonator pinsinto contact with the tissue clamped between the first jaw and thesecond jaw; and supplying electrical energy to the plurality ofultrasonic resonator pins to at least one of coagulate, anastomose andcut the tissue clamped between the first jaw and the second jaw.
 28. Themethod according to claim 27, wherein the step of supplying electricalenergy includes supplying ultrasonic energy.
 29. The method according toclaim 28, wherein the plurality of ultrasonic resonator pins arearranged on the second jaw, and wherein the second jaw of theelectro-mechanical surgical device includes the ultrasonic transducer,the method further comprising the step of the ultrasonic resonatorgenerating the ultrasonic energy.
 30. The method according to claim 29,further comprising the step of resonating the ultrasonic energy throughthe plurality of resonator pins.
 31. The method according to claim 27,wherein the electro-mechanical surgical device further includes at leastone sensor, and wherein the method further includes the step of sensinga temperature of the tissue.
 32. The method according to claim 31,further comprising the step of the sensor transmitting a signal toindicate the temperature of the tissue.
 33. The method according toclaim 27, further comprising the step of adjusting at least one of aheight, a width and a density of a spacing of the plurality of resonatorpins.
 34. A method for performing a procedure on tissue of a body,comprising: providing an electro-mechanical surgical device, including:a first jaw; a second jaw opposing the first jaw, the first jaw and thesecond jaw configured to clamp tissue therebetween; and a plurality ofultrasonic resonator pins arranged on at least one of the first jaw andthe second jaw; relatively moving the first jaw and the second jaw toclamp tissue therebetween and to bring the plurality of ultrasonicresonator pins into contact with the tissue clamped between the firstjaw and the second jaw; and supplying electrical energy to the pluralityof ultrasonic resonator pins to at least one of coagulate, anastomoseand cut the tissue clamped between the first jaw and the second jaw. 35.The method according to claim 34, wherein the step of supplyingelectrical energy includes supplying ultrasonic energy.
 36. The methodaccording to claim 35, wherein the plurality of ultrasonic resonatorpins are arranged on the second jaw, and wherein the second jaw of theelectro-mechanical surgical device includes an ultrasonic transducerconfigured to supply ultrasonic energy to the plurality of ultrasonicresonator pins; the method further comprising the step of the ultrasonicresonator generating the ultrasonic energy.
 37. The method according toclaim 36, further comprising the step of resonating the ultrasonicenergy through the plurality of resonator pins.
 38. The method accordingto claim 34, wherein the electro-mechanical surgical device includes anultrasonic transducer configured to supply ultrasonic energy to theplurality of ultrasonic resonator pins.
 39. The method according toclaim 34, wherein the electro-mechanical surgical device furtherincludes at least one sensor, and wherein the method further includesthe step of sensing a temperature of the tissue.
 40. The methodaccording to claim 39, further comprising the step of the sensortransmitting a signal to indicate the temperature of the tissue.
 41. Themethod according to claim 34, further comprising the step of adjustingat least one of a height, a width and a density of a spacing of theplurality of resonator pins.